Eligibility Specialist

DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.

Employee Benefits:

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.

Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.

Job Description:    

Under the direct supervision of Program Supervisor and overall Direction of the Program Manager, performs complex (journey-level) administrative support work for the Children with Special Health Care Needs Program (CSHCN-SP). Responsible for the administration, review, completion and submitting of CSHCN applications electronically using a specific database. Provides in-services, updates and training for DSHS Social Work staff and community agencies. Coordinates with Medicaid programs such as Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), Emergency Medicaid, TP3O and the Medicaid Buy-In for Children (MBIC). Represents the CSHCN program at workshops, health fairs and other community events. Develops information materials regarding CSHCN policy, benefits and services. Will lead and coordinate all travel processes.  Collects, enters, and maintains all items related to travel to include mileage.

Maintains and enters relevant information into our reporting systems like the SHSS Task Reporting Qualtrics system and the CMIS database. Provides information and referral services. Completes administrative duties, special assignments, monthly report and work activities in a professional and timely manner. Conducts switchboard coverage, greeting and directing visitors to appropriate staff, disseminate information as needed. Responsible for the mail system when on rotation. Coordinates administrative assistance meetings and trainings. May provides guidance to other administrative assistance in the program. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement. Works collaboratively with public health staff in the event of a regional or state disaster. Participates in the 24/7 emergency line when on rotation. Maintains confidentiality.

Essential Job Function:

(35%) Program (CSHCN) Support

Description: Receives incoming calls and responds to inquiries for program information. Greets and receives requests from walk-ins regarding program information. Assist the Social Service Department personnel with ongoing client direct services and Children with Special Health Care Need Program (CSHCN) application submissions. Assists clients in the CSHCN to the proper case manager in the region. Assist with the training of incoming Eligibility Support staff. Provides limited guidance and assistance to clients with Medicaid programs such as Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), Emergency Medicaid, TP30 and the Medicaid Buy-In for Children (MBIC).  

(25%) Administrative Support

Description: Prepares, edits and distributes reports using Microsoft to create timely and accurate correspondence, labels, statistical reports, presentations, and other documents. Creates new files for new case management clients. Guides and assists clients by routing them to the proper source of service. Inputs client data into computer terminal. Reserves conferences rooms as needed by the program. Assists with coordination activities and planner to organize program events; through monthly calendar. Create Administrative work schedules/calendars when assigned. Assists with other administrative duties as assigned.

(30%) Travel Support

Description: As the lead for travel, is proficient in the E-Travel system. Utilize Microsoft Word and Excel to create reports, accurate correspondence, spreadsheets, tables and other documents. Maintains and retrieves statistical data for program use. Creates travel reports to maintain accurate travel entries and keeps track of travel expenditures. Coordinates all travel activities and reminders for staff, which include making travel arrangements.  Submit and record all travel reimbursements, TR forms for staff. Trains and assist incoming administrative staff with travel reimbursements. Ensures all travel is entered accurately and in a timely manner.

(5%) Record Maintenance

Description: Maintain TWICES reports for CSHCN clients. Generate and renewal letters to clients. Handle incoming referrals and open cases if necessary. File and maintain all CSHCN cases. Maintains accurate files on all cases. Assists in preparation of weekly workload report on required weekly basis and in a timely manner. Provide monthly program reports upon request.

(5%) Adherence to policy & Other Duties as assigned.

Description:  Assist with programmatic processes for upcoming events and conferences. Complete program tasks as needed. Maintains an acceptable driving record, a valid class C Texas driver’s license, and professional license. Maintains working knowledge of Human Resources, Information Technology, Administrative Policy and Program Policy. Completes all Public Health Emergency Response, COOP, and the 24/7 emergency hotline coverage. Reports time, labor and travel information in a timely manner. Assists or responds to Public Health Emergency Response when needed. Other Duties as assigned.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:   

Must possess a valid Class C Texas driver’s license, or equivalent license from another state. 

Knowledge Skills Abilities:  

Knowledge of office practices and administrative procedures Knowledge of CSHCN policy and procedures

Knowledge about community and agency programs that may be able to provide services to CSHCN SP

Knowledge of the E-Travel system, policy and procedures.

Skill in use of electronic data and word processing equipment as well as software, including Windows, Excel, internet, email, etc.

Skill in typing, filing, planning, organizing, data collection, and reporting

Ability to learn, interpret and apply complex and frequently changing program rules, policies and procedures

Ability train others on complex CSHCN-SP rules, policies and procedures

Ability to interpret and disseminate information to medical providers, other agencies and the public Ability to provide technical assistance and quality assurance

Ability to learn, interpret and apply community resources, benefits, CSHCN program and eligibility requirements

Ability to create reports/spreadsheets for the CSHCN and E-Travel systems.

Ability to train incoming staff on the e-travel system and its policies and procedures.

Ability communicate effectively verbally, orally (including public speaking) and in writing

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisor and co-workers Ability to interact with the public in a professional manner

Ability to work effectively with external and internal customers

Initial Screening Criteria:  

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility:

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.  Download the I-9 form